Exceptional Talent Visa | Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent)

This route is aimed at non-EEA citizens who are considered to have exceptional world class talent or promise and are acknowledged as being world leaders/potential world leaders in the fields of science, humanities, engineering, medicine, the arts or digital technology. If your expertise lies in the digital technology field, you can apply under the Tech Nation Visa Scheme which is a sub-section of this category.

To apply, applicants need to score 75 points.

To score the required points, applicant’s need to have an endorsement (confirmation) from a ‘designated competent body’. Essentially, this is an organisation that the UKVI trusts as being able to identify an applicant as being a world-leader in their particular field or having the potential to be a world-leader their particular field. So for example if an artist wanted to apply under this route they would need to get an endorsement from the Arts Council of England.

There is not maintenance requirement to be met (unless you were previously benefitting from a scholarship at a UK University) and there is no English Language requirement to be met (unless you are applying to extend your leave under this category).

If successful, Tier 1 Exceptional Talent migrants can be granted up to five years leave (if they apply in the UK) or five years four months (if they apply from abroad).

From our experience, we have found that the UKVI are very strict when deciding applications under this route so if you consider yourself world class in your particular field (and the relevant organisation would too) then why not get in touch to arrange a consultation. We will be able to help you make the best possible application that you can.

If you do not meet the requirements for Tier 1 Exceptional Talent you may still wish to apply for a student visa if you’re planning to attend a UK university, or a work visa in order to bring your skills or profession into the UK.

We are a qualified and experienced immigration firm, regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC). We offer assistance and specialist advice on specific immigration issues. We are not part of the Home Office. General immigration advice and forms can be found on the Home Office website www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk.